Swearing Boosts Strength and Pain Tolerance, Study Reveals

New research highlights the potential benefits of swearing, suggesting that it can enhance physical strength and tolerance to pain. A study published in the journal American Psychologist details how cursing may serve as a tool for pain relief and increased performance during physical tasks. This idea stems from the concept known as the “hypoalgesic effect of swearing.”

Richard Stephens, a psychologist at Keele University, has long been intrigued by the effects of profanity. His interest began with observing his wife’s use of curse words during childbirth and questioning whether this behavior could alleviate pain. In a landmark study from 2009, Stephens and his colleagues examined the pain-relief effects of swearing. Participants submerged their hands in ice water, alternating between cursing and reciting a neutral word. Results indicated that those who swore reported less pain and could endure the cold for an average of 40 seconds longer than those who did not.

The underlying mechanisms of this phenomenon remain a topic of investigation. A follow-up study conducted in 2020 reaffirmed these findings. Participants were instructed to chant either a profanity or invented words like “fouch” and “twizpipe.” Only the use of a curse word significantly influenced pain perception, as participants who swore demonstrated a higher pain threshold.

Exploring the Impact of Swearing on Performance

Stephens has continued to explore how swearing can enhance physical performance. In studies from 2018 and 2022, he demonstrated that swearing could improve strength during tasks such as chair push-ups. This led to the hypothesis that swearing might promote disinhibition, allowing individuals to push their physical limits.

In recent experiments, participants chose a swear word commonly used in moments of frustration and a neutral term. They then performed push-up tasks while repeating these words every two seconds. The outcomes showed that those who swore could support their body weight significantly longer than those who used neutral language. Participants also reported greater psychological flow, reduced distraction, and heightened self-confidence during the task.

“Swearing is a calorie-neutral, drug-free, low-cost, readily available tool at our disposal for when we need a boost in performance,” said Stephens. This finding sheds light on why swearing has become a common response to pain and physical challenges.

Future Research Directions

The research team plans to delve deeper into the effects of swearing in contexts such as public speaking and romantic interactions, where individuals often feel hesitant and less confident. By understanding how swearing affects these situations, the researchers hope to uncover further benefits of this behavior.

This ongoing exploration into the psychology of swearing not only enhances our understanding of human behavior but also provides insight into practical applications for improving performance and pain management. As more studies emerge, the case for swearing as a beneficial tool gains traction, offering a unique perspective on how language can influence our physical and psychological well-being.